Trip reports

Stodmarsh 16th May

Monday, 18 May 2009

A few days before our coach trip to Stodmarsh a Black-winged Pratincole decided he liked the area ( the 1st for 38 years) and I hoped it would stay ,at least until Saturday. Arriving at the car-park at Grove Ferry, it was evident that it was still about as the the car-park was full and we had difficulty in parking the coach.
From the viewing mound Turtle doves,Avocet,black-tailed Godwits,Little ringed Plover,Hobby and Wood Sandpiper were seen. Moving on to the Marsh hide, a large crowd were standing around outside the hide unable to get in ( sardines in cans comes to mind ). The Pratincole was roosting in ffront of the hide but a scope was needed to see it well. Some of the group decided to hang around to see if they could get better views whilst most of the group moved off, deciding to come back later.
Cetti's warblers were very much in evidence, singing, it seemed ,at every other bush but not showing. Marsh Harriers were quartering the reedbeds and at least 1 pair were seen passing food to each other.
Common Terns searched for food across the lake, when the Black-winged Pratincole came hawking over the lake and headed upstream. Due to the very windy conditions bearded tits were not showing.
Most of the group were able to see the Pratincole and a happy crowd returned home.